Dr. McKinley Boston was named Director of Athletics at New Mexico State University (NMSU) on Dec. 14, 2004.After familiarizing himself with the area, community/people, programs, consulting with Regents, NMSU President Mike Martin and senior staff, the department went through an exhaustive self-assessment to begin answering three questions: where are we, where do we want to go and how do we get there.This self-assessment eventually led to the creation of the Athletic Departments, “Journey to Excellence,” a five-year strategic plan adopted by the Board of Regents in 2008.This plan has become the administration’s road map that guides the annual work of staff, coaches, administrators and stake holders in support of our vision to become one of the best mid-major athletic programs in the country.Dr. Boston encourages you to visit our web page and learn more about our Journey to Excellence.

Dr. Boston served as Senior Student Affairs Officer (VP for Student Affairs at the University of Minnesota), Athletics Director at University of Minnesota as the first African-American AD in the Big Ten Conference, and as Athletic Director at University of Rhode Island Kean College.In addition, Dr. Boston served as president of MB&A, Inc., a consulting company that assisted colleges and universities in the development of strategic business partnership planning.

Dr. Boston started his career in academia as an instructor at Montclair State College and assistant football coach.During this period Dr. Boston wore many hats and eventually remained as an instructor, football coach and director of student services (1972-88).

He currently serves on the NCAA Management Council Leadership cabinet, which is the highest level of oversight addressing the legislative process of the NCAA.He also is a member o f the NCAA Certification Committee and served for five years as a member of the Division I Men’s Basketball Committee.

Locally, Dr. Boston serves as a board member of La Casa in support of providing social services for women and children in dysfunctional relationships.

Dr. Boston attended the University of Minnesota as an undergraduate and competed in football and was a first team All-Big Ten Football player and Academic All-Big Ten.Dr. Boston received his bachelor’s from Montclair State College, master’s degree from Montclair State, doctorate of education from New York University, Certificate of Leadership from the National Academy of Leadership and Effectiveness in Washington D.C., and served as a visiting Scholar at Harvard University.

He played professional football with the New York Giants, was a special teams captain, and also played with the Vancouver British Columbia Lions of the Canadian Football league.